Accuphase DP-85 (2001–2007)

Name: Accuphase DP-85
Brand: Accuphase

A high-end single-box SACD/CD player with modular digital architecture and ultra-low jitter performance.

Overview

The Accuphase DP-85 is a high-end Super Audio CD and CD player made by Accuphase Laboratory Inc. in Yokohama, Japan, from July 2001 to 2007. The SACD/CD transport and the digital processor are totally separate sections. The transport uses a single lens/twin pickup mechanism for high-speed disc access. There are three option board slots and one slot for an external digital signal processing device, so the I/O functions can be expanded. It shipped with the RC-28 remote control. The build is exquisite, with a satin-gold champagne faceplate and a heavy-duty metal front bezel 3/5 inch thick.

Design

The DP-85 uses an MDS-type D/A converter with six delta-sigma converters per channel, mounted on Teflon PCBs for low dielectric loss. Inside, the transport and DAC sections are completely separate. Each has its own power supplies, including two internal transformers. The analog outputs and the MDS DA converter sit on low-loss Teflon circuit boards. The design is not internally balanced, and a user recommends using the unbalanced outputs for best performance. The rear panel has HS-link (based on RJ-45), digital coaxial and TosLink inputs, and both balanced and unbalanced analog outputs.

Context

The DP-85 was the top standalone model in Accuphase's lineup. It sat a step below the $28,000 DP-100/DC-101 two-box SACD transport/DAC system. It was designed to work with other Accuphase components such as the CD-330 digital preamplifier and DF-35 digital crossover. Its digital processor was considered ready for future source formats, and the option boards gave it room to expand.

Market

The DP-85 had an original price of $16,500. By 2004, used units sold for $6,500 - $7,000. Current listings put it at 4,850.00€ on the secondary market.